Testimonials from Our Patient Families

Jimmy

My three-year-old son, Jimmy, was diagnosed with Sickle Cell Anemia at birth. We are truly blessed to have the expertise and compassionate care of the pediatric hematology doctors, counselors and pediatric nurse practitioners at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH). We have recently taken our first step in dealing with his chronic illness.

The Sickle Cell Program at RWJUH has been a TREMENDOUS assistance to us. As a family, we try to be involved in all of the programs (Holiday Party, Counseling Services, Support Group sessions, etc.) offered. These programs have allowed us to network with other families with the same situations and enhance our quality of life.

One of the biggest benefits is the Sickle Cell Education Night. This has allowed my son, my husband and I to learn more about the disease, hear news of current research being conducted and how to manage everyday life (for example, what happens during hospital stays as a result of a "pain crisis"). There was an occasion when we had to solicit emergency financial assistance. We could not have made it through our "family" crisis if it was not for the support of the Embrace Kids Foundation. We owe them a depth of gratitude for the care they have provided our son and for allowing us to be a part of what we feel is an extension of our family.

Our goal as parents is for him to lead a happy childhood/adulthood that is as normal as possible. We have had many challenges, but we are surviving as a result of the help from our extended family.

Sonya Williams